Abstract

The appropriate combination of methaerylate polymers permits the synthesis of a soluble polymer for use in ruthenium(II)-catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation reactions. Using a 7:3 copolymer of a poly(ethylene glycol) ester and a hydroxyethyl ester, a derived ruthenium(II)/ norephedrine complex catalyses reduction of acetophenone in up to 95% yield and 81% ee.